Fighting Irish Close Memorable Season in D-III State Championship Game vs. Bishop Watterson

The Central Catholic football team’s postseason journey concluded Friday at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium with a hard-fought performance in the OHSAA Division III State Championship Game, falling to unbeaten Bishop Watterson. The Irish finish the season 11–5 and capped an unforgettable run by reaching the state finals for the fourth straight year — an accomplishment shared by only a select few programs in Ohio.

This year’s matchup marked the third consecutive championship meeting between the two schools. Central Catholic defeated Bishop Watterson 27–7 in the 2023 state final, while the Eagles edged the Irish 19–14 a year ago.

Junior QB Ali Beydoun threw for 150 yards (14-of-36), connecting five times each with seniors WR Preston Fryzel and WR Victor Singleton Jr. Junior RB Jeremiah Fuller led the team on the ground with 34 yards on 12 carries. Defensively, the Fighting Irish showcased their resilience with four interceptions, including two by senior DB Jerome Davis V, along with takeaways from senior DL Zenaje Liggons and junior DB Keyon Robinson.

Friday’s game also marked the final appearance for Central Catholic’s 20-member senior class — a group that helped lead the program to multiple deep postseason runs and continued the proud tradition of Irish football: Tyler Britsch, Robert Campbell, Jerome Davis V, Ryan Dempsey, Gavin Eckhart, Dominick Frausto, Preston Fryzel, Raymond Goodlow, Kevon Harrison, Aidan Lamb, Zenaje Liggons, Jaylen Linzy-Stubblefield, Logan Miller, Blake Moody, Grady Rough, Victor Singleton Jr., Anthony Sylvester, Sharard Vaughn III, Braylon Whitney, and Armon Wiggins.

Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to the values of Central Catholic have left a lasting legacy on Cherry Street.